Christmas Carol Cancelled

I know this is a shock but "That infamous star-crusted production of "A Christmas Carol" that was to have played the Civic Opera House Dec. 22-27 has been canceled. The whole tour is not happening.

No F. Murray Abraham (unless you have Netflix). No George Wendt (unless you are going to the Second City anniversary). No Scrooge (unless you are going to the Goodman Theatre).

Refunds are available at points of purchase (if you bought by credit card, you should get an automatic refund). Convenience charges will also be refunded (which is not always the case).

"You're the cause of all of this," producer Kevin Von Feldt told me."
Chicago Tribune

Even if there producer wasn't a mess, I can't fathom how much of a draw it would have ultimately been. Aren't there like two or three productions playing in Chicago right at this moment?

Stockard Channing is still coming, though, right?

^ Star-crusted is like when you see Bernadette in your toast. :)

Updated On: 11/24/09 at 12:42 PM

I just can't believe Stockard, Tim and F. Murray missed the chance to see Rice Lake Wisconsin in November. I mean, I know none of those folks are getting besieged by offers, but can you imagine the look on any of their faces when Von Feldt lays out the Rehearsal schedule?

"OK, we'll be staying in Rice Lake Wisconsin, rehearsing at Rice Lake High school. You'll be staying at the Super 8 on main. They have continental breakfast till 9, so your per diem will be adjusted accordingly."

I can picture these "stars" weeping, wondering where they went wrong.

Updated On: 11/24/09 at 01:05 PM

Kev, if you're still reading the posts here, consider this: try to succeed on a smaller scale before failing big-time again.

At least this removes the temptation for me to go to Chicago from DC right after Christmas (and it might have just by my little old lonesome)for the chance to see James Garner. What unmitigated insanity that excursion would have been... I'm kind of bummed I won't be undertaking it.

There is GOOD NEWS, Phyllis: Stockard Channing has rejoined the production. During Christmas week she'll recite passages from Dickens' beloved holiday classic on the sidewalks of the Loop. Mr. Von Feldt will accompany her on tin whistle, when he's not guarding the change bucket. Eight magical performances (or until hypothermia sets in).

Updated On: 11/29/09 at 12:50 PM